The Perfect Pair

Food and Wine for Your Picnic

by Katherine Pretorius

You're in a serene park or by the beach, surrounded by nature's beauty. The sun shines, the birds sing, and your picnic blanket is laid out. Now, you're ready to savour a delightful meal. But wait, what about the wine?

Choosing the Right Wine for Your Picnic
Pairing the right wine with your picnic spread can elevate your outdoor dining experience to a whole new level. Here's a guide to help you choose the perfect vino for your picnic fare:

  1. Rosé for Light Picnics:
    If your picnic revolves around light and refreshing dishes like salads, seafood, or charcuterie, a chilled bottle of rosé wine is an ideal companion. Its crisp acidity and fruity notes harmonise wonderfully with these flavours.
  2. Sauvignon Blanc for Zesty Flavors:
    When your picnic basket includes dishes with zesty flavours, like a citrusy salad or tangy cheese, go for a Sauvignon Blanc. Its vibrant acidity and herbal hints can balance out the sharpness of these foods.
  3. Chardonnay for Creamy Delights:
    Creamy pasta salads, quiches, or dishes with buttery sauces deserve a Chardonnay. Its full-bodied nature and notes of vanilla and oak pair perfectly with these indulgent treats.

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  1. Pinot Noir for Versatility:
    If your picnic menu is a mix of various flavours, such as chicken, sandwiches, or mild cheeses, Pinot Noir is a versatile choice. It's light enough not to overpower any dish yet flavourful enough to complement them all.
  2. Sparkling Wine for Celebration:
    A picnic can be a celebratory affair, so why not pop open a bottle of sparkling wine? Whether it's a Prosecco, Cava, or Champagne, the effervescence and crispness are perfect for toasting to the great outdoors.
  3. Red Blend for Hearty Feasts:
    A red blend is an excellent choice if your picnic is filled with heartier fare, like barbecued meats, sandwiches with robust fillings, or earthy dishes. It combines the best of several grape varieties, offering complexity and depth.
  4. Sweet Wine for Desserts:
    Picnic desserts can range from fruit tarts to chocolate truffles. A sweet dessert wine, such as a late-harvest Riesling or Muscat, pairs beautifully with these sugary delights.

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A Few Tips:
1. Keep It Chilled: Ensure your wine is well-chilled but not too cold. An ice pack or a well-insulated wine bag can help maintain the right temperature.
2. Stemless Wine Glasses: Opt for stemless wine glasses during picnics. They're sturdier and less likely to tip over on uneven ground.
3. Corkscrew: Remember a corkscrew to open your bottle. Modern designs are compact and easy to carry.
4. Wine Tumblers: For a truly laid-back picnic, consider wine tumblers. They're less likely to break and come with lids, so you can prevent unwanted spills.

The Perfect Pairing: Wine and Scenic Beauty
The beauty of a picnic isn't only in the food and wine; it's also in the natural setting. The taste of your wine can be influenced by the view. A sea breeze or the shade of tall trees can add an extra layer to the wine's bouquet.

Cheers to the wonderful world of picnicking, where the taste of adventure is as delightful as your food and wine!